The Outer Banks, located in North Carolina has many scenic and special places. One of these places is Ocracoke Island. Located across the Hatteras Inlet, The Anticipation builds before you even get on the island. This starts the moment you get on the North Carolina Department Of Transportation Ferry Service.

The experience of the Ferry service Starts at the terminal located in Hatteras Village. The ferry then goes out and around the channels used for smaller vessels before making the turn into the northern end of Ocracoke to offload at the southern terminus.

The route uses two types of vessels. The first is known as the “Hatteras Class”. The “Hatteras Class” is a smaller fleet of ferries built in the 1980’s. These vessels can carry up to 40 vehicles. This vessel class can also be distinguished by the one direction bridge and passenger lounge which is centered in the vessel.

The other class ferry used is the “River Class”. This class of vessel is a larger, newer class of vessels that can carry up to 60 vehicles.  These vessels are easy to identify as they can be piloted both ways. They also have a large passenger lounge and viewing deck.

The route also features the unique “Ocracoke Express” option. “Oacracoke Express” is a passenger only option that originates from the main Hatteras Village terminal. This route, instead of terminating on the northern end of the island, goes all the way around the island before terminating right in the heart of the village on the southern side.

Once in the village, a free shuttle service is offered that runs through the scenic sites and restaurants. Bikes are also allowed on the ferry for a small fee and are great for visitors who want to get around all of the traffic and lack of parking.

The Hatteras Village to Ocracoke ferry is truly a special route that makes memories for families and friends alike.